AMA CPT® Assistant - 1993 Issue 3 (Fall)
Clarifications to Pathology and Laboratory Test Coding (Fall 1993)
Fall 1993 page 25-end Coding Commentary Clarifications to Pathology and Laboratory Test Coding Since the Pathology and Laboratory section was updated in 1993, we have received many inquiries regarding the philosophy behind the new coding system and about which code(s) to use to report services previously described with codes that were deleted or significantly revised. A glossary of terms begins on page 27. CPT 1993 generally eliminates laboratory codes for specific methods, specimen sources, and calculations in many cases (see glossary of CPT laboratory terms). More generic codes for use with multiple test methods, instruments, or kits and for...
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Article Overview
This CPT Assistant article from Fall 1993 reviews clarifications to the updated pathology and laboratory section of CPT and discusses how revised terminology and code organization affect reporting across laboratory testing, molecular diagnostics, transfusion medicine, surgical pathology, and post-mortem services. It is intended for coding professionals, laboratory billing staff, and others who need to understand the scope of the revised system, the broad categories of tests addressed, and the types of coding questions the article clarifies.
Why This Topic Matters
The article helps readers determine whether their lab and pathology coding scenarios fall within the revised CPT framework described in the 1993 update. It is useful for identifying the general areas of guidance covered in the article before consulting the full premium content.
Article Sections
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Coding Commentary
Introduces the 1993 pathology and laboratory coding update and explains the overall reporting context for revised and deleted service categories.
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Specific questions about the use of the Pathology and Laboratory section of CPT are addressed below
Covers a series of focused coding questions across laboratory assays, molecular diagnostics, infectious disease testing, post-mortem services, fine needle aspirate evaluation, and surgical pathology specimen handling.
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Glossary of Terms
Defines general laboratory and pathology terminology used in the article, including assay types, specimen concepts, and related technical terms.
What You Will Learn
- How the revised pathology and laboratory section is organized at a high level
- Which broad categories of laboratory methods and specimen-based services are addressed
- How the article frames questions about molecular diagnostics, transfusion medicine, infectious agent testing, and surgical pathology
- What terminology the accompanying glossary clarifies for readers
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Pathology and laboratory billing staff
- Compliance and revenue cycle professionals
- Clinical laboratory administrators
- Physician practice coding staff
Codes Discussed
Code Ranges Discussed
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